Mediterranean rockrose extract shows potential against skin fungi

Researchers from the Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche, in collaboration with universities in Belgium and Portugal, have identified antifungal potential in an extract from Cistus salviifolius, a Mediterranean rockrose species. The study, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, focused on a polyphenol-rich extract derived from plants grown in controlled university gardens.

The extract demonstrated significant activity against dermatophytes, which are fungi that thrive on keratin in the skin, hair, and nails. Specifically, the study noted sensitivity in Trichophyton rubrum, a major cause of cutaneous mycosis, and Microsporum canis, which can be transmitted from animals to humans. However, the extract did not show clear antifungal activity against the yeast Candida albicans at the concentrations tested.

Using electron microscopy, scientists observed cellular disruptions in treated fungi, including large vacuoles, internal disorder, and detached membranes, suggesting the extract causes cells to lose content or rupture. While Cistus salviifolius has a history of traditional use for treating wounds and skin inflammation, researchers emphasize that this remains preclinical research and is not yet a clinical remedy.